In October, the Capital Area Manufacturing Council and numerous partners hosted Manufacturing Day. More than 1,000 students explored career and apprenticeship opportunities in manufacturing. One student, Clara, left inspired: “I had never thought that I was capable of doing something like this. I am very glad that I went on the manufacturing field trip with my school.”

It’s essential for students like Clara, who may have never considered a career in the skilled trades before, to explore a variety of career opportunities. If she chooses to pursue a career in skilled trades, an apprenticeship will help her develop the skills needed to excel in the workforce. As we head into National Apprenticeship Week, it’s key for businesses to promote apprenticeship opportunities.

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is a national celebration that offers leaders in business, labor, education and more a chance to express their support for apprenticeships. This year’s National Apprenticeship Week will take place Nov. 13–19, 2017.

NAW will feature apprentice graduations, business open houses, school career fairs, apprenticeship signing days, skills competitions and industry roundtable events. The events throughout the week highlight the benefits of apprenticeships in preparing a highly skilled workforce to meet the talent needs of employers across a variety of industries.

Our future depends on apprenticeships. As more workers from the baby boomer generation begin to retire, it’s essential we pass on their skills and knowledge to a capable workforce. Apprentices receive the necessary training and knowledge for a successful career, and ultimately stand out among other applicants in their field who don’t have the prior training.

•There are more than 545,000 apprentices nationwide in more than 1,000 occupations. In the State of Michigan alone, there are more than 14,000 active apprentices.

•Nearly nine out of 10 apprentices are employed after completing their apprenticeship, with an average starting salary of at least $60,000 per year. According to Time Magazine, the average salary for a college graduate in 2016 was $50,556.

•Workers who complete apprenticeship programs earn $300,000 more over a career than their peers who don’t. Having the training and skills in your particular field really pay off in the long run.

•Apprentices earn while they learn, reducing their need to take on debt. The opportunity to earn money while learning your particular craft is hugely beneficial. Not having student loan debt to worry about when jumping into a career leads to financial stability and less stress.

To learn how you or your organization can get involved with apprenticeship programs, contact Capital Area Michigan Works! You can also visit www.going-pro/NAW for more information.

Edythe Hatter-Williams is the CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works! Visit www.camw.org to connect with the Capital Area Michigan Works! team for assistance with career exploration, apprenticeship information and more. Capital Area Michigan Works! is a proud partner of the American Job Center network, offering services in Ingham, Clinton and Eaton counties at our Lansing, St. Johns and Charlotte American Job Centers.